Behind the Song: the Untold Story of Vince Gill's 'When I Call Your Name'

Stay updated on Behind the Song: the Untold Story of Vince Gill's 'When I Call Your Name'. Read all about the primary developments in this concise summary.

Q1: Who originally wrote "When I Call Your Name"?

A1: The song was co-written by Vince Gill and veteran Nashville songwriter and executive Tim DuBois in 1989. It served as the title track for Gill's breakthrough solo album on MCA Nashville.

Q2: Why was Patty Loveless uncredited on the original single release?

A2: Patty Loveless contributed the signature high-register harmony vocals, but contractual constraints between rival record labels in 1989 prevented her name from appearing as a featured artist on the original 45 RPM single sleeve. Her contribution has since been universally acknowledged and celebrated.

Q3: What major awards did "When I Call Your Name" win?

A3: The song earned the 1990 CMA Single of the Year and Song of the Year honors, followed by the 1991 Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. It was the first Grammy win of Gill's career, which eventually grew to 22 Grammys.

Q4: How did the 2025 CMA Awards honor this song?

A4: During the presentation of the 2025 CMA Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award to Vince Gill, Brandi Carlile and Patty Loveless performed a live tribute duet of "When I Call Your Name," honoring its place in the American songbook.